Data roaming

Keeping you connected at home…and away!

At dbfb we always want you to stay connected, whether that’s here at home or when you’re travelling the world. With data roaming charges being re-introduced, we want to help you understand the potential costs and how to prepare for your travels.

If you want to stay connected and use devices abroad, there are a few things to consider.

Before you travel

Contact us at least 2 working days before you depart and set up a data roaming plan to avoid any unexpected added costs.

Our network providers offer a number of data roaming tariff options including Daily or Monthly passes. Daily Passes are commonly used for shorter trips of up to 10 days, whilst Monthly Passes are best for those longer trips, usually two weeks or more.

In addition to passes, you also have the option of a capped or uncapped roaming package. A capped package will give you set amount of data, 5GB for example, with additional charges following if that limit is exceeded. Whereas an uncapped roaming package allows you to use unlimited data abroad, albeit it at a higher cost, but the choice is yours.

When you travel

When you board a flight, or a cruise, ensure you keep your phone on airplane mode and turn off your data roaming whilst you’re travelling to your destination.

Why is this so important?

Putting your phone on airplane mode helps you avoid roaming charges and is effective for several reasons:

1. Disables cellular connectivity: Airplane mode turns off your phone’s ability to connect to cellular networks. This prevents your phone from automatically connecting to a foreign network, which can incur high roaming charges for calls, texts, and data usage.

2. Prevents background data usage: Many apps on your phone may use data in the background without your explicit knowledge. When you’re abroad, these background activities can lead to substantial data roaming charges. Airplane mode ensures that no apps can use mobile data.

3. Avoids accidental calls and messages: Even if you don’t actively use your phone, accidental calls or messages can still occur. With airplane mode on, you eliminate the risk of inadvertently making or receiving calls or sending texts that could be charged at roaming rates.

4. Stops automatic updates: Phones often update apps and system software automatically when connected to the internet. These updates can consume a lot of data, which, while roaming, can be very expensive. Airplane mode stops these automatic updates by disconnecting the device from the internet.

Activating airplane mode

iPhone users:

1. Unlock iPhone, tap settings on the home screen.
2. Then slide the ‘Airplane Mode’ bar right, it will turn green, indicating you’re in airplane mode. 

Samsung / Android users:

1. Unlock Samsung, tap settings on home screen.
2. Then tap connections, then slide the ‘Airplane Mode’ bar right, it will turn blue, indicating you’re in airplane mode.